Conditions InDepth: Hypertension

Hypertension
is the medical term for high blood pressure. Blood pressure is the measure of force that blood flow creates against the artery walls. High blood pressure is when this pressure is higher than expected.

Normal blood pressure is in the range of 120/80 mm Hg. The higher number, called the systolic, represents the pressure in the artery when the heart beats. The lower number, called the diastolic, represents the pressure when the heart is at rest. Hypertension is defined as regular systolic pressure greater than 140 mm Hg and/or diastolic pressure greater than 90 mm Hg.

Causes

The blood vessels throughout the body are designed to help blood flow smoothly, direct blood flow where necessary, and help to manage blood pressure. High blood pressure may occur because of one or more of the following:

Damage to the walls of the blood vessels that make it difficult for blood to flow through

Build up of plaque (
atherosclerosis
) or blood clots on blood vessel walls that reduce the area the blood can pass through

Structural problems with blood vessels—from congenital conditions

Conditions or medication that make blood vessels tighten when they should not

Decreased elasticity of blood vessels—common effect of aging

These conditions make it harder for the heart to push blood throughout the body. The heart has to push harder for each heart beat and the blood flow can become more turbulent, which both increase pressure on the blood vessel walls.

Primary blood pressure often develops over time because of a combination of these factors.

Secondary hypertension on the other hand, usually develops more quickly and is caused by other health conditions, such as kidney or endocrine disorders, or sleep apnea. Over-the-counter and prescription medications can also cause secondary hypertension.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

What is high blood pressure? National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
website. Available at:
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/hbp.
Updated August 2, 2012. Accessed February 26, 2014.